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Ankara Mayors Deny Reports of Defection to AKP
Published: 2026/02/08 13:55:07
Recent claims circulating in Turkish media alleging that several district mayors from the Republican People’s Party (CHP) in Ankara were planning to defect to the Justice and Progress Party (AKP) have been refuted by the mayors themselves. The denials came swiftly through statements posted on their respective social media accounts.
Mayors Issue denials
The mayors of Beypazarı, Gölbaşı, and Kalecik – Özer Kasap, Yakup Odabaşı, and Satılmış Karakoç, respectively – all released statements dismissing the reports as unfounded speculation. Their responses emphasized continued loyalty to the CHP and a strong working relationship with Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur yavaş.
Özer Kasap (Beypazarı)
Beypazarı Mayor Özer Kasap stated his commitment to working alongside Ankara Metropolitan Mayor Mansur Yavaş, describing him as a brother and fellow citizen. He affirmed that any suggestion of a split was untrue and pledged continued service to the residents of Beypazarı under the CHP banner. Beypazarı Municipality Official Website
Yakup Odabaşı (Gölbaşı)
Gölbaşı Mayor Yakup Odabaşı highlighted the collaborative relationship between his municipality and the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality, expressing gratitude for the support received from Mayor Yavaş. He reiterated his dedication to working towards shared goals alongside the Metropolitan Mayor. Gölbaşı Municipality Official Website
Satılmış Karakoç (Kalecik)
Kalecik Mayor Satılmış Karakoç strongly condemned the circulating rumors as “false claims.” He emphasized a long-standing partnership with Mansur Yavaş, describing him not only as a fellow mayor but as a close colleague and brother. Karakoç affirmed his unwavering commitment to serving the people of Kalecik and ankara under the CHP, rejecting any notion of division or defection. Kalecik Municipality Official Website
Context and Political Landscape
These denials come amid a period of heightened political scrutiny in Turkey, with local elections approaching in March 2024. The CHP is aiming to maintain and expand its influence in Ankara, while the AKP seeks to regain ground.Allegations of party switching are common during election cycles, making the mayors’ swift responses especially noteworthy. Hurriyet Daily News
Key Takeaways
- Mayors of Beypazarı, Gölbaşı, and Kalecik have publicly denied reports of defecting from the CHP to the
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